How Can We Prevent Teen Accidents Caused By Drunk Driving?
|
How Can We Prevent Teen Accidents Caused By Drunk Driving?
Drunk driving or driving under the influence can be defined as the act of operating or driving a vehicle with 0.08% blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in the body. However, in some states, a person with a BAC of above 0.0% is also considered an offender and is held accountable for it. Drunk driving is considered as a serious offense; you can be charged with a fine, suspension of your license and even prison. In Australia, you might have to hire a specialist lawyer (find drink driving lawyers Sydney).
According to MADD, teenage alcohol use kills 4,300 people each year and majority of these deaths are caused due to accidents. It is better to take preventive measures in order to avoid a situation which could have a permanent impact on your life and others.
Here’s a short list of things we can do as parents to help prevent drunk driving accidents of teens.
- Understand The Problem
If you are a worried parent aware of your child’s drinking problem, then it’s a good idea to understand the root of the problem, for the sake of your child’s well-being. You need to understand why teens drink in the first place. Being a teenager is not easy; it is a transitioning phase, full of choices and bad decision to follow. They believe that drinking and doing drugs will make them feel accepted. What they fail to understand is that they are not achieving anything at all other than inflicting harm upon themselves.
- Educate Your Children
Most teens drink out of curiosity, your job as a parent is to educate your child about the consequences of drinking. According to a research, the most common cause of deaths in young people between the ages of 15 to 24 is drunk driving. Teach your children the hazards of drunk driving even if they are unable to drive because they need to know how to act in such a situation which may involve their friends. It is important for them to understand this, as they are putting the lives of others in danger as well. Moreover, teach them that drunk driving can land you in jail or some other serious legal action can be taken against you.
- Set An Example
The best way to get the message across is to set an example. Your children may never admit this but subconsciously they pick up a lot of their habits from you. If they see you making a big deal out of drinking and driving they will surely follow suit. Cut down on your alcohol intake as well, and if you drink when you’re out, always take a taxi.
Guest Article.